The perfect holiday glazed ham recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping centrepiece for your holiday feast, glazed ham is a classic choice. Its sweet and savoury flavours, combined with the tender and juicy meat, make it a favourite for family gatherings. Follow this simple yet delicious recipe to prepare a ham that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Ham:

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)

For the Glaze:

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup honey

1/3 cup Dijon mustard

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or orange juice

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.

Score the surface of the ham by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat and enhance its flavour.

Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan lined with aluminium foil for easier cleanup.

2. Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or orange juice), cinnamon, and cloves.

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

Add the butter and stir until melted, then remove the glaze from the heat.

3. Bake the Ham

Cover the ham loosely with aluminium foil to prevent it from drying out.

Bake the ham for 15-18 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound ham, this will take approximately 2 hours.

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and brush the ham generously with the glaze. Repeat this step every 10 minutes to build a rich, caramelized coating.

4. Finish and Serve

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham’s internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring tender slices.

Transfer the ham to a serving platter and drizzle with any remaining glaze.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Ham: Look for a fully cooked bone-in ham for maximum flavour and moisture. Spiral-cut hams are convenient for serving but may dry out faster.

Don’t Skip Scoring: Scoring the ham’s surface not only makes it visually appealing but also helps the glaze adhere better.

Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with other flavours like maple syrup, pineapple juice, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.

This glazed ham recipe is a foolproof way to impress guests and bring holiday magic to your table. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and freshly baked rolls for a comforting and unforgettable meal. Enjoy the celebration and savour every bite!